Gaming machine that changes the number of free games depending on football game result thereof

ABSTRACT

It is determined whether to execute a mini game at least during execution of a basic game. When it is determined to execute the mini game, it is displayed the predetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-out images in a display. When the penalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory, a point-number corresponding to the number of victory times is added to an accumulated point-number. Then, a free game is executed in accordance with the accumulated point-number.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.60/907,260, filed on Mar. 27, 2007.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a gaming machine that changes thenumber of free games depending on a game result thereof.

2. Description of Related Art

According to the conventional slot machine, when a predeterminedcondition is satisfied in a basic game, a game state is provided whichis referred to as a free game enabling a player to play a game withoutconsuming a credit. When a game state is shifted to the free game state,a player can acquire many credits. For example, US20020025849 disclosesa free game as a second game. In general, the number of free games (freegame-number) is randomly determined. At this time, a predetermined freegame-number is set.

The invention provides a gaming machine having new entertainmentcharacteristics.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention provides a gaming machine having structures as describedbelow. The gaming machine comprises a display that displays an image, amemory that stores an accumulated point-number to be updated dependingon an execution result of a mini game, an input device that outputs asignal to start a basic game and a game controller programmed to operateas described in steps (a1)˜(a6).

Specifically, in a step (a1), the game controller is programmed to startthe basic game as the signal is received from the input device. In astep (a2), the game controller is programmed to determine whether toexecute the mini game at least during execution of the basic game. In astep (a3), the game controller is programmed to display thepredetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-out images in the display,when it is determined to execute the mini game. In a step (a4), the gamecontroller is programmed to add a point-number corresponding to thenumber of victory times to the accumulated point-number to update theaccumulated point-number, when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends invictory. In a step (a5), the game controller is programmed to determinea game-number of a free game depending on the accumulated point-numberafter executing the mini game. In a step (a6), the game controller isprogrammed to execute the free game by the game-number.

In the gaming machine of the invention, when a basic game is started asa signal is received from an input device, it is determined whether toexecute a mini game at least during execution of the basic game. When itis determined to execute the mini game, the predetermined number ofpenalty-kick shoot-out images is displayed in a display. When thepenalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory, a point-number corresponding tothe number of victory times is added to an accumulated point-number toupdate the accumulated point-number. As a result, a free game isexecuted by the number of games (game-number) that is determineddepending on the accumulated point-number after the mini game isexecuted, so that a gaming machine having new entertainmentcharacteristics is realized.

The invention provides a gaming machine having structures as describedbelow. The gaming machine comprises a display that displays an image, amemory that stores an accumulated point-number to be updated dependingon an execution result of a mini game, an input device that outputs asignal to start a basic game and a game controller programmed to operateas described in steps (b1)˜(b7).

Specifically, in a step (b1), the game controller is programmed to startthe basic game as the signal is received from the input device. In astep (b2), the game controller is programmed to display a football gameimage in the display at least during execution of the basic game. In astep (b3), the game controller is programmed to determine whether toexecute the mini game at least during the execution of the basic game.In a step (b4), the game controller is programmed to display thepredetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-out images in the display,when it is determined to execute the mini game. In a step (b5), the gamecontroller is programmed to add a point-number corresponding to thenumber of victory times to the accumulated point-number to update theaccumulated point-number, when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends invictory. In a step (b6), the game controller is programmed to determinea game-number of a free game depending on the accumulated point-numberafter executing the mini game. In a step (b7), the game controller isprogrammed to execute the free game by the game-number.

In the gaming machine of the invention, when a basic game is started asa signal is received from an input device, a football game image isdisplayed in a display at least during execution of the basic game.Then, it is determined whether to execute a mini game at least duringthe execution of the basic game. When it is determined to execute themini game, the predetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-out images isdisplayed in the display. When the penalty-kick shoot-out ends invictory, a point-number corresponding to the number of victory times isadded to an accumulated point-number to update the accumulatedpoint-number. As a result, a free game is executed by the game-numberthat is determined depending on the accumulated point-number after themini game is executed, so that a gaming machine having new entertainmentcharacteristics is realized.

The invention provides a gaming machine having structures as describedbelow. The gaming machine comprises a display that displays an image, amemory that stores an accumulated point-number to be updated dependingon an execution result of a mini game, an input device that outputs asignal to start a basic game and a game controller programmed to operateas described in steps (c1)˜(c7).

Specifically, in a step (c1), the game controller is programmed to startthe basic game or free game as the signal is received from the inputdevice. In a step (c2), the game controller is programmed to determinewhether to execute the mini game at least during execution of the basicgame. In a step (c3), the game controller is programmed to display thepredetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-out images in the display,when it is determined to execute the mini game. In a step (c4), the gamecontroller is programmed to display a setting image enabling a player todetermine at least one of a ball speed and a ball direction in thepenalty-kick shoot-out. In a step (c5), the game controller isprogrammed to add a point-number corresponding to the number of victorytimes to the accumulated point-number to update the accumulatedpoint-number, when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory. In a step(c6), the game controller is programmed to determine a game-number ofthe free game depending on the accumulated point-number after executingthe mini game. In a step (c7), the game controller is programmed toexecute the free game by the game-number.

In the gaming machine of the invention, when a basic game or free gameis started as a signal is received from an input device, it isdetermined whether to execute a mini game at least during execution ofthe basic game. When it is determined to execute the mini game, thepredetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-out images is displayed in adisplay. In addition, it is displayed a setting image enabling a playerto determine at least one of a ball speed and a ball direction in thepenalty-kick shoot-out. When the penalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory,a point-number corresponding to the number of victory times is added toan accumulated point-number to update the accumulated point-number. As aresult, the free game is executed by the game-number that is determineddepending on the accumulated point-number after the mini game isexecuted, so that a gaming machine having new entertainmentcharacteristics is realized.

The invention provides a gaming machine having structures as describedbelow. The gaming machine comprises a first display that displays animage, a second display that displays an image, a memory that stores anaccumulated point-number to be updated depending on an execution resultof a mini game, an input device that outputs a signal to start a basicgame and a game controller programmed to operate as described in steps(d1)˜(d8).

Specifically, in a step (d1), the game controller is programmed to startthe basic game as the signal is received from the input device. In astep (d2), the game controller is programmed to display an image of thebasic game in the first display. In a step (d3), the game controller isprogrammed to display a football game image in the second display atleast during execution of the basic game. In a step (d4), the gamecontroller is programmed to determine whether to execute the mini gameat least during the execution of the basic game. In a step (d5), thegame controller is programmed to display the predetermined number ofpenalty-kick shoot-out images together with the image of the basic gamein the first display, when it is determined to execute the mini game. Ina step (d6), the game controller is programmed to add a point-numbercorresponding to the number of victory times to the accumulatedpoint-number to update the accumulated point-number, when thepenalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory. In a step (d7), the gamecontroller is programmed to determine a game-number of a free gamedepending on the accumulated point-number after executing the mini game.In a step (d8), the game controller is programmed to execute the freegame by the game-number.

In the gaming machine of the invention, when a basic game is started asa signal is received from an input device, an image of the basic game isdisplayed in the first display. In addition, a football game image isdisplayed in a second display at least during execution of the basicgame. Then, it is determined whether to execute a mini game at leastduring execution of the basic game. When it is determined to execute themini game, the predetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-out images isdisplayed in the first display, together with the image of the basicgame. In addition, when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory, apoint-number corresponding to the number of victory times is added to anaccumulated point-number to update the accumulated point-number. As aresult, a free game is executed by the game-number that is determineddepending on the accumulated point-number after the mini game isexecuted, so that a gaming machine having new entertainmentcharacteristics is realized.

The invention provides a gaming machine having structures as describedbelow. The gaming machine comprises a display that displays an image, amemory that stores an accumulated point-number to be updated dependingon an execution result of a mini game, an input device that outputs asignal to start a basic game and a game controller programmed to operateas described in steps (e1)˜(e8).

Specifically, in a step (e1), the game controller is programmed to startthe basic game as the signal is received from the input device. In astep (e2), the game controller is programmed to display a football gameimage in the display at least during execution of the basic game. In astep (e3), the game controller is programmed to determine whether toexecute the mini game at least during the execution of the basic game.In a step (e4), the game controller is programmed to display thepredetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-out images in the display,when it is determined to execute the mini game. In a step (e5), the gamecontroller is programmed to display a setting image enabling a player todetermine at least one of a ball speed and a ball direction in thepenalty-kick shoot-out. In a step (e6), the game controller isprogrammed to add a point-number corresponding to the number of victorytimes to the accumulated point-number to update the accumulatedpoint-number, when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory. In a step(e7), the game controller is programmed to determine a game-number of afree game depending on the accumulated point-number after executing themini game. In a step (e8), the game controller is programmed to executethe free game by the game-number.

In the gaming machine of the invention, when a basic game is started asa signal is received from an input device, it is displayed a footballgame image in the display at least during execution of the basic game.Then, it is determined whether to execute a mini game at least duringthe execution of the basic game. When it is determined to execute themini game, the predetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-out images isdisplayed in the display. In addition, it is displayed a setting imageenabling a player to determine at least one of a ball speed and a balldirection in the penalty-kick shoot-out. When the penalty-kick shoot-outends in victory, a point-number corresponding to the number of victorytimes is added to an accumulated point-number to update the accumulatedpoint-number. As a result, the free game is executed by the game-numberthat is determined depending on the accumulated point-number after themini game is executed, so that a gaming machine having new entertainmentcharacteristics is realized.

The invention provides a gaming machine having structures as describedbelow. The gaming machine comprises a first display that displays animage, a second display that displays an image, a memory that stores anaccumulated point-number to be updated depending on an execution resultof a mini game, an input device that outputs a signal to start a basicgame and a game controller programmed to operate as described in steps(f1)˜(f9).

Specifically, in a step (f1), the game controller is programmed to startthe basic game as the signal is received from the input device. In astep (f2), the game controller is programmed to display an image of thebasic game in the first display. In a step (f3), the game controller isprogrammed to display a football game image in the second display atleast during execution of the basic game. In a step (f4), the gamecontroller is programmed to determine whether to execute the mini gameat least during the execution of the basic game. In a step (f5), thegame controller is programmed to display the predetermined number ofpenalty-kick shoot-out images together with the image of the basic gamein the first display, when it is determined to execute the mini game. Ina step (f6), the game controller is programmed to display, in the firstdisplay, a setting image enabling a player to determine at least one ofa ball speed and a ball direction in the penalty-kick shoot-out. In astep (f7), the game controller is programmed to add a point-numbercorresponding to the number of victory times to the accumulatedpoint-number to update the accumulated point-number, when thepenalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory. In a step (f8), the gamecontroller is programmed to determine a game-number of a free gamedepending on the accumulated point-number after executing the mini game.In a step (f9), the game controller is programmed to execute the freegame by the game-number.

In the gaming machine of the invention, when a basic game is started asa signal is received from an input device, an image of the basic game isdisplayed in a first display. In addition, a football game image isdisplayed in a second display at least during execution of the basicgame. Then, it is determined whether to execute a mini game at leastduring the execution of the basic game. When it is determined to executethe mini game, the predetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-out imagesis displayed in the first display, together with the image of the basicgame. In addition, it is displayed in the first display a setting imageenabling a player to determine at least one of a ball speed and a balldirection in the penalty-kick shoot-out. When the penalty-kick shoot-outends in victory, a point-number corresponding to the number of victorytimes is added to an accumulated point-number to update the accumulatedpoint-number. As a result, a free game is executed by the game-numberthat is determined depending on the accumulated point-number after themini game is executed, so that a gaming machine having new entertainmentcharacteristics is realized.

The invention provides a gaming machine having structures as describedbelow. The gaming machine comprises a first display that displays animage, a second display that displays an image, a memory that stores anaccumulated point-number to be updated depending on an execution resultof a mini game, an input device that outputs a signal to start a basicgame or free game shifted from the basic game and a game controllerprogrammed to operate as described in steps (g1)˜(g9).

Specifically, in a step (g1), the game controller is programmed to startthe basic game or free game as the signal is received from the inputdevice. In a step (g2), the game controller is programmed to display animage of the basic game or free game in the first display. In a step(g3), the game controller is programmed to display a football game imagein the second display during execution of the basic game or free game.In a step (g4), the game controller is programmed to determine whetherto execute the mini game at least during the execution of the basic gameor free game. In a step (g5), the game controller is programmed todisplay the predetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-out imagestogether with the image of the basic game or free game in the firstdisplay, when it is determined to execute the mini game. In a step (g6),the game controller is programmed to display, in the first display, asetting image enabling a player to determine at least one of a ballspeed and a ball direction in the penalty-kick shoot-out. In a step(g7), the game controller is programmed to add a point-numbercorresponding to the number of victory times to the accumulatedpoint-number to update the accumulated point-number, when thepenalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory. In a step (g8), the gamecontroller is programmed to determine a game-number of the free gamedepending on the accumulated point-number after executing the mini game.In a step (g9), the game controller is programmed to execute the freegame by the game-number.

In the gaming machine of the invention, when a basic game or free gameis started as a signal is received from an input device, an image of thebasic game or free game is displayed in a first display. In addition, afootball game image is displayed in a second display at least duringexecution of the basic game or free game. Then, it is determined whetherto execute a mini game at least during the execution of the basic gameor free game. When it is determined to execute the mini game, thepredetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-out images is displayed inthe first display, together with the image of the basic game or freegame. In addition, it is displayed in the first display a setting imageenabling a player to determine at least one of a ball speed and a balldirection in the penalty-kick shoot-out. When the penalty-kick shoot-outends in victory, a point-number corresponding to the number of victorytimes is added to an accumulated point-number to update the accumulatedpoint-number. As a result, a free game is executed by the game-numberthat is determined depending on the accumulated point-number after themini game is executed, so that a gaming machine having new entertainmentcharacteristics is realized.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a playing method of a gaming machine;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an external appearance of a gamingmachine;

FIG. 3 illustrates a display screen;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of a gaming machine;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a first image control circuit;

FIG. 6 is a data table showing symbols and code numbers of the symbols;

FIG. 7 shows a data table of a payout management table;

FIG. 8 shows a data table of a free game-number table;

FIG. 9 shows a data table of a mini game start determining table;

FIG. 10 shows a data table of a mini game result determining table;

FIG. 11 illustrates a display screen;

FIG. 12 illustrates a display screen;

FIG. 13A is a flow chart showing a part of a basic game process;

FIG. 13B is a flow chart showing a part of a basic game process;

FIG. 14 is a flow chart of a mini game process;

FIG. 15 is a flow chart of a free game process; and

FIG. 16 illustrates a playing method of a gaming machine.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, an embodiment of a gaming machine according to theinvention will be described.

(Outline of a Gaming Machine)

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, a gaming machine (slot machine) 1 comprises adisplay (upper variable display unit 4A, central variable display unit4B and the like) that displays an image, a memory (RAM 33) that storesan accumulated point-number to be updated depending on an executionresult of a mini game, an input device (operating button 11) thatoutputs a signal to start a basic game and a game controller (main CPU32) programmed to operate as described in steps (a1)˜(a6).

Specifically, in a step (a1), the game controller is programmed to startthe basic game as the signal is received from the input device. In astep (a2), the game controller is programmed to determine whether toexecute the mini game at least during execution of the basic game. In astep (a3), the game controller is programmed to display thepredetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-out images in the display,when it is determined to execute the mini game. In a step (a4), the gamecontroller is programmed to add a point-number corresponding to thenumber of victory times to the accumulated point-number to update theaccumulated point-number, when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends invictory. In a step (a5), the game controller is programmed to determinea game-number of a free game depending on the accumulated point-numberafter executing the mini game. In a step (a6), the game controller isprogrammed to execute the free game by the game-number.

Thereby, the gaming machine executes a gaming method comprising steps ofstarting a basic game as a signal is received from an input device;determining whether to execute a mini game at least during execution ofthe basic game; displaying the predetermined number of penalty-kickshoot-out images in a display, when it is determined to execute the minigame; adding a point-number corresponding to the number of victory timesto an accumulated point-number to update the accumulated point-number,when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory; and executing a freegame by a game-number determined depending on the accumulatedpoint-number after executing the mini game.

(Definition)

Herein, the “gaming machine” may be a slot machine 1 for a single playeror may be a multiplayer-type gaming machine that allows participation oftwo or more players. For example, the multiplayer-type gaming machinemay consist of several slot machines 1 that are connected to each otherin a data communication manner. In addition, the gaming machine mayexecute any of a mechanically operating game, an electrically operatinggame and a mechanically and electrically operating game. As themechanically operating game, there is a slot machine 1 having reels thatare realistically manufactured. In addition, as the electricallyoperating game, there is a slot machine 1 that displays a reel image ina display device such as liquid crystal monitor and virtually rotates ormoves the reel. Meanwhile, in this embodiment, the invention providesthe slot machine 1 as the gaming machine. However, it should be notedthat the invention is not limited thereto.

The “display” may include a liquid crystal display device, a CRT(cathode-ray tube) device, a plasma display device and the like. Inaddition, a single or several displays may be provided to the slotmachine 1. Moreover, in the case of the multiplayer-type gaming machine,the display may be respectively provided to each of the slot machines 1.Alternatively, a large-scale display that is commonly used for all theslot machines 1 may be provided separately from the slot machines 1.

The “basic game” is an original main game of the gaming machine and agame that is executed in a base game state. For example, in the slotmachine 1, the basic game is a slot game that is executed in a generalgame state. Meanwhile, the slot game is a game in which symbols arevariably stopped and a game value is awarded depending on a stop displayresult. In the mean time, the “game value” includes a medal, coin,gaming ball, money, bill, magnetic card the like.

The “mini game” is a sub-game that is different from the original maingame of the gaming machine and is executed simultaneously with the basicgame or executed at one time period during a stop period of the basicgame. For example, in this embodiment, the mini game is a penalty-kickshoot-out game that is executed during execution of the slot game.

In the mean time, in the penalty-kick shoot-out, a penalty-kick may becontinuously carried out in an automatic manner and it is possible toadjust a direction or intensity that a player kicks a ball. In otherwords, as shown in FIG. 16, it is provided a button for determining aball speed or ball direction, as a type of operating buttons 1. A playerdetermines a ball direction and then operates the operating button 11 tocorrespond to a bar display that vertically moves in a range of low andhigh speeds, thereby determining a ball speed directing to a goal. Inthis case, it is possible to provide the player with an interest thatthe player will take part in a mini game.

The “free game” is a game in which a player can play a game over thepredetermined number of times without betting a coin. The free game is atype of a bonus game. The bonus game is a gaming state that is moreadvantageous than the basic game. Meanwhile, the bonus game is notparticularly limited as long as it is a gaming state that isadvantageous to a player, i.e., it is more advantageous than the basicgame. For example, the bonus game may include a state in which more gamemedia can be acquired than in the basic game, a state in which a gamemedium can be acquired in a higher probability than the basic game, astate in which the game medium is less consumed than in the basic gameand the like.

The “point” is generated as a result that a mini game ends in success.The number of points has an effect on the free game-number. A pay lineL, symbols 180, a winning combination and the golf game will bespecifically described below.

In addition, the game controller may be structured to operate programsof steps (b1)˜(b7)

In a step (b1), the game controller is programmed to start a basic gameas a signal is received from an input device. In a step (b2), the gamecontroller is programmed to display a football game image in a displayduring execution of the basic game. In a step (b3), the game controlleris programmed to determine whether to execute the mini game at leastduring the execution of the basic game. In a step (b4), the gamecontroller is programmed to display the predetermined number ofpenalty-kick shoot-out images in the display, when it is determined toexecute the mini game. In a step (b5), the game controller is programmedto add a point-number corresponding to the number of victory times tothe accumulated point-number to update the accumulated point-number,when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory. In a step (b6), thegame controller is programmed to determine a game-number of a free gamedepending on an accumulated point-number after executing the mini game.In a step (b7), the game controller is programmed to execute the freegame by the game-number.

Thereby, the gaming machine executes a playing method comprising stepsof starting a basic game as a signal is received from an input device;displaying a football game image in a display during execution of thebasic game; determining whether to execute the mini game at least duringthe execution of the basic game; displaying the predetermined number ofpenalty-kick shoot-out images in the display, when it is determined toexecute the mini game; adding a point-number corresponding to the numberof victory times to an accumulated point-number to update theaccumulated point-number, when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends invictory; and executing a free game by a game-number determined dependingon the accumulated point-number after executing the mini game.

In addition, the game controller may be structured to operate programsof steps (c1)˜(c7).

In a step (c1), the game controller is programmed to start a basic gameor free game as a signal is received from an input device. In a step(c2), the game controller is programmed to determine whether to executea mini game at least during execution of the basic game. In a step (c3),the game controller is programmed to display the predetermined number ofpenalty-kick shoot-out images in the display, when it is determined toexecute the mini game. In a step (c4), the game controller is programmedto display a setting image enabling a player to determine at least oneof a ball speed and a ball direction in the penalty-kick shoot-out. In astep (c5), the game controller is programmed to add a point-numbercorresponding to the number of victory times to an accumulatedpoint-number to update the accumulated point-number, when thepenalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory. In a step (c6), the gamecontroller is programmed to determine a game-number of a free gamedepending on the accumulated point-number after executing the mini game.In a step (c7), the game controller is programmed to execute the freegame by the game-number.

Thereby, the gaming machine executes a gaming method comprising steps ofstarting a basic game or free game as a signal is received from an inputdevice; determining whether to execute a mini game at least duringexecution of the basic game; displaying the predetermined number ofpenalty-kick shoot-out images in the display, when it is determined toexecute the mini game; displaying a setting image enabling a player todetermine at least one of a ball speed and a ball direction in thepenalty-kick shoot-out; adding a point-number corresponding to thenumber of victory times to the accumulated point-number to update theaccumulated point-number, when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends invictory; and executing a free game by a game-number determined dependingon the accumulated point-number after executing the mini game.

In addition, the game controller may be structured to operate programsof steps (d1)˜(d8).

In a step (d1), the game controller is programmed to start a basic gameas a signal is received from an input device. In a step (d2), the gamecontroller is programmed to display an image of the basic game in afirst display. In a step (d3), the game controller is programmed todisplay a football game image in a second display at least duringexecution of the basic game. In a step (d4), the game controller isprogrammed to determine whether to execute the mini game at least duringthe execution of the basic game. In a step (d5), the game controller isprogrammed to display the predetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-outimages together with the image of the basic game in the first display,when it is determined to execute the mini game. In a step (d6), the gamecontroller is programmed to add a point-number corresponding to thenumber of victory times to an accumulated point-number to update theaccumulated point-number, when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends invictory. In a step (d7), the game controller is programmed to determinea game-number of a free game depending on the accumulated point-numberafter executing the mini game. In a step (d8), the game controller isprogrammed to execute the free game by the game-number.

Thereby, the gaming machine executes a gaming method comprising steps ofstarting a basic game as a signal is received from an input device;displaying an image of the basic game in a first display; displaying afootball game image in a second display at least during execution of thebasic game; determining whether to execute a mini game at least duringthe execution of the basic game; displaying the predetermined number ofpenalty-kick shoot-out images together with the image of the basic gamein the first display, when it is determined to execute the mini game;adding a point-number corresponding to the number of victory times tothe accumulated point-number to update the accumulated point-number,when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory; and executing a freegame by a game-number determined depending on the accumulatedpoint-number after executing the mini game.

In addition, the game controller may be structured to operate programsof steps (e1)˜(e8).

In a step (e1), the game controller is programmed to start a basic gameas a signal is received from an input device. In a step (e2), the gamecontroller is programmed to display a football game image in a displayat least during execution of the basic game. In a step (e3), the gamecontroller is programmed to determine whether to execute a mini game atleast during execution of the basic game. In a step (e4), the gamecontroller is programmed to display the predetermined number ofpenalty-kick shoot-out images in the display, when it is determined toexecute the mini game. In a step (e5), the game controller is programmedto display a setting image enabling a player to determine at least oneof a ball speed and a ball direction in the penalty-kick shoot-out. In astep (e6), the game controller is programmed to add a point-numbercorresponding to the number of victory times to an accumulatedpoint-number to update the accumulated point-number, when thepenalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory. In a step (e7), the gamecontroller is programmed to determine a game-number of a free gamedepending on the accumulated point-number after executing the mini game.In a step (e8), the game controller is programmed to execute the freegame by the game-number.

Thereby, the gaming machine executes a gaming method comprising steps ofstarting a basic game as a signal is received from an input device;displaying a football game image in a display at least during executionof the basic game; determining whether to execute a mini game at leastduring execution of the basic game; displaying the predetermined numberof penalty-kick shoot-out images in the display, when it is determinedto execute the mini game; displaying a setting image enabling a playerto determine at least one of a ball speed and a ball direction in thepenalty-kick shoot-out; adding a point-number corresponding to thenumber of victory times to an accumulated point-number to update theaccumulated point-number, when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends invictory; and executing a free game by a game-number determined dependingon the accumulated point-number after executing the mini game.

In addition, the game controller may be structured to operate programsof steps (f1)˜(f9).

In a step (f1), the game controller is programmed to start a basic gameas a signal is received from the input device. In a step (f2), the gamecontroller is programmed to display an image of the basic game in afirst display. In a step (f3), the game controller is programmed todisplay a football game image in a second display at least duringexecution of the basic game. In a step (f4), the game controller isprogrammed to determine whether to execute a mini game at least duringthe execution of the basic game. In a step (f5), the game controller isprogrammed to display the predetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-outimages together with the image of the basic game in the first display,when it is determined to execute the mini game. In a step (f6), the gamecontroller is programmed to display, in the first display, a settingimage enabling a player to determine at least one of a ball speed and aball direction in the penalty-kick shoot-out. In a step (f7), the gamecontroller is programmed to add a point-number corresponding to thenumber of victory times to an accumulated point-number to update theaccumulated point-number, when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends invictory. In a step (f8), the game controller is programmed to determinea game-number of a free game depending on the accumulated point-numberafter executing the mini game. In a step (f9), the game controller isprogrammed to execute the free game by the game-number.

Thereby, the gaming machine executes a gaming method comprising steps ofstarting a basic game as a signal is received from the input device;displaying an image of the basic game in a first display; displaying afootball game image in a second display at least during execution of thebasic game; determining whether to execute a mini game at least duringthe execution of the basic game; displaying the predetermined number ofpenalty-kick shoot-out images together with the image of the basic gamein the first display, when it is determined to execute the mini game;displaying, in the first display, a setting image enabling a player todetermine at least one of a ball speed and a ball direction in thepenalty-kick shoot-out, adding a point-number corresponding to thenumber of victory times to an accumulated point-number to update theaccumulated point-number, when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends invictory; and executing a free game by a game-number determined dependingon the accumulated point-number after executing the mini game.

In addition, the game controller may be structured to operate programsof steps (g1)˜(g9).

In a step (g1), the game controller is programmed to start a basic gameor free game as a signal is received from an input device. In a step(g2), the game controller is programmed to display an image of the basicgame or free game in a first display. In a step (g3), the gamecontroller is programmed to display a football game image in a seconddisplay during execution of the basic game or free game. In a step (g4),the game controller is programmed to determine whether to execute a minigame at least during the execution of the basic game or free game. In astep (g5), the game controller is programmed to display thepredetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-out images together with theimage of the basic game or free game in the first display, when it isdetermined to execute the mini game. In a step (g6), the game controlleris programmed to display, in the first display, a setting image enablinga player to determine at least one of a ball speed and a ball directionin the penalty-kick shoot-out. In a step (g7), the game controller isprogrammed to add a point-number corresponding to the number of victorytimes to an accumulated point-number to update the accumulatedpoint-number, when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory. In a step(g8), the game controller is programmed to determine a game-number ofthe free game depending on the accumulated point-number after executingthe mini game. In a step (g9), the game controller is programmed toexecute the free game by the game-number.

Thereby, the gaming machine executes a gaming method comprising steps ofstart a basic game or free game as a signal is received from an inputdevice; displaying an image of the basic game or free game in a firstdisplay; displaying a football game image in a second display duringexecution of the basic game or free game; determining whether to executea mini game at least during the execution of the basic game or freegame; displaying the predetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-outimages together with the image of the basic game or free game in thefirst display, when it is determined to execute the mini game;displaying, in the first display, a setting image enabling a player todetermine at least one of a ball speed and a ball direction in thepenalty-kick shoot-out; adding a point-number corresponding to thenumber of victory times to an accumulated point-number to update theaccumulated point-number, when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends invictory; and executing a free game by a game-number determined dependingon the accumulated point-number after executing the mini game.

(Mechanical Structure)

In the followings, it is described an example of the gaming machine thatis structured as a slot machine 1. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the slotmachine 1 is an upright-type slot machine and has a cabinet 3 foraccommodating electrical or mechanical parts that are provided toexecute a predetermined game. The cabinet 3 has a shape that is long ina vertical direction. A display 4 is provided to a front side oppositeto a player at the cabinet 3. The display 4 displays game informationbased on a game operation of a player, a basic game and a mini game.

Specifically, the display has a variable display unit 4A that isdisposed at an upper part, a variable display unit 4B that is disposedat a central part and a variable display unit 4C that is disposed at alower part. The upper variable display unit 4A has an upper transparentliquid crystal panel 5A. The upper liquid crystal panel 5A is fixed to afront door of the cabinet 3. A football game screen or PK-waiting screenin a basic game, a mini game and a free game is displayed in the upperliquid crystal panel 5A. In other words, the upper liquid crystal panel5A displays a football game screen during the stopping period of themini game while it displays a PK-waiting screen during execution of themini game.

The central variable display unit 4B is a rotating symbol display panelthat a player always observes closely, and has a central transparentliquid crystal panel 5B that is fixed to the front door of the cabinet3. Five display windows 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E are displayed in the centralliquid crystal panel 5B. The display windows 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E aredisplayed in an overall screen when a mini game is not executed. In themean time, when the mini game is executed, the display windows 7A, 7B,7C, 7D, 7E are displayed in an upper-half part of the screen.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 3, a single pay line L is displayed in thecentral liquid crystal panel 5B. The pay line L horizontally traversesthe five display windows 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E. Herein, the “pay line” isprovided to determine a combination of the symbols 180. In other words,when the symbols 180 are rearranged on and out of the pay line L, acombination is determined for only the symbols 180 rearranged on the payline. As a result of the determination for a combination, when it ismade a winning combination, it is carried out, for example, a process ofpaying out a coin based on the winning combination.

The central liquid crystal panel 5B carries out an effect such as movingpicture when a winning is made, for example. In addition, a bet-numberdisplay unit 6, a payout-number display unit 8 and a credit-numberdisplay unit 9 are displayed in an upper part of the central liquidcrystal panel 5B. Furthermore, an effect screen of a penalty-kickshoot-out is displayed in the central liquid crystal panel 5B when amini game is executed. The effect screen is displayed in a lower-halfpart of a screen. As a result, when a mini game is executed, the displaywindows 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E and the penalty-kick shoot-out arerespectively displayed in the upper and lower areas. Thereby, a playercan watch a penalty-kick shoot-out of the mini game while playing a slotgame by the display windows 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E.

The lower variable display unit 4C has a lower liquid crystal panel 5Cthat displays a point-number recorded in a card or a game point-number.The numerical value displayed in the lower liquid crystal panel 5C isbased on a display result of the central variable display unit 4B. Whena winning combination is made in the central variable display unit 4B,the game point-number that is displayed in the lower liquid crystalpanel 5C is added on the basis of the winning combination made. A ticketprinter 14 is provided to a left side of the lower liquid crystal panel5C. In the mean time, a card reader 15 is provided to a right side ofthe lower liquid crystal panel 5C.

An operating table 10 that protrudes from the front face of the cabinet3 is disposed below the lower variable display unit 5C. On the operatingtable 10, there are arranged operating buttons 11 (for example, betbutton, collect button, start button, stop button and the like) as anoperating unit enabling a player to operate a game. In addition, a coininsertion slot 12 and a bill insertion slot 13 are provided to theoperating table 10.

A waist-position panel 17 is disposed below the operating table 10. Thewaist-position panel 17 is a plastic panel having a game-related imageprinted thereto. The waist-position panel 17 is fixed to a lower frontdoor 18 and illuminated by a cold cathode-ray tube. In addition, a cointray 19 that collects coins, which are paid out on the basis of a gameresult, is disposed below the waist-position panel 17.

In addition, the cabinet 3 is provided with a light-emitting unit 20 ofFIG. 4. The light-emitting unit 20 consists of many lamps including sidelamps 22, speaker lamps 24, under lamps 25 and top lamps 26 and aredisposed to surround a game area including the upper variable displayunit 4A, the central variable display unit 4B, the lower variabledisplay unit 4C and the operating table 10.

The side lamps 22 are provided to inclined parts 21•21. The inclinedparts 21•21 are respectively disposed at front right and left ends ofthe cabinet 3. The inclined parts 21•21 are disposed to interpose theupper variable display unit 4A, the central variable display unit 4B andthe lower variable display unit 4C and are formed into a shape that isprotruded in a bow shape.

In addition, the speaker lamps 24 are protruded from both ends of thecabinet 3 adjacent to the operating table 10. The speaker lamps 24 areprovided to arc-shaped speakers 23 and arranged along edges of thespeakers 23. The under lamps 25 are provided to the lower front door 18and arranged along lower edges of the waist-position panel 17. The toplamps 26 are provided to an upper part of the upper variable displayunit 4A. The top lamps 26 have power lamps 26 a•26 a disposed at bothsides and central band-shaped lamps 26 b arranged in a horizontaldirection.

(Electrical Structure)

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an overall electrical structure of theslot machine 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the slot machine 1 has manycomponents about a main control substrate 71 including a microcomputer31. The main control substrate 71 has a microcomputer 31, a randomnumber generator 35, a sampling circuit 36, a clock pulse generatingcircuit 37, a frequency dividing circuit 38, an illumination effectdriving circuit 61, a hopper driving circuit 63, a payout completionsignal circuit 65, a display unit driving circuit 67, a first imagecontrol circuit 68, a second control circuit 69 and a speaker dividingcircuit 72.

The microcomputer 31 has a main CPU 32, a RAM 33 and a ROM 34. The mainCPU 32 operates in accordance with a program stored in the ROM 34 andexecutes an input/output of a signal to and from the other components,thereby controlling an overall operation of the slot machine 1. The RAM33 serves as a temporary storage means when the main CPU 32 operates.The ROM 34 stores data or program used when the main CPU 32 operates.For example, a random number value that is sampled by the samplingcircuit 36 is temporarily maintained in the ROM after a game starts. Inaddition, a payout management table shown in FIG. 7 and a freegame-number table shown in FIG. 8 are stored in the ROM. In addition to,the ROM 34 stores a program that is executed by the main CPU 32 andpermanent data.

The random number generator 35 is operated in accordance with aninstruction of the main CPU 32 and generates a random number within apredetermined range. The sampling circuit 36 samples any random numberof the random numbers that are generated by the random number generator35 in accordance with an instruction of the main CPU 32 and inputs thesampled random number into the main CPU 32. The clock pulse generatingcircuit 37 generates a reference clock for operating the main CPU 32 andthe frequency dividing circuit 38 inputs a signal that the referenceclock is divided in a predetermined period to the main CPU 32.

In addition, the main control substrate 71 is connected with theoperating buttons 11 including a stop button for inputting aninstruction to stop the scroll of the symbol rows, a start button, acollect button, a bet button and the like and allows signalscorresponding to the push of the buttons to be inputted into the mainCPU 32 via the I/O port 39.

In addition, the main control substrate 71 is connected with a billvalidator 58, a coin counter 59, a ticket printer 14 and a card reader15.

The bill validator 58 reads an image of bill inserted into the billinsertion slot 13 and receives the normal bill in the cabinet 3. Inaddition, when receiving the normal bill, the bill validator 58 outputsan input signal to the main CPU 32 based on an amount of the bill. Themain CPU 32 stores a credit-number in the RAM 33, which corresponds tothe amount of bill transmitted by the input signal.

The coin counter 59 is provided in the coin insertion slot 12 andidentifies whether the coin inserted into the coin insertion slot 12 isnormal or not. The abnormal coin is discharged to the coin tray 19. Inaddition, the coin counter 59 outputs an input signal to the main CPU 32when it detects a normal coin.

The ticket printer 14 prints a barcode on a ticket, in which data suchas credit-number stored in the RAM 33, the day and time andidentification number of the slot machine 1 is coded, based on thecontrol signal outputted from the main CPU 32, and then outputs a tickethaving the barcode.

The card reader 15 reads the data from a smart card to transmit it tothe main CPU 32, or writes the data to the smart card based on a controlsignal from the main CPU 32.

The illumination effect driving circuit 61 outputs an effect signal thatcauses the light-emitting unit 20 to execute an illumination effect. Thelight-emitting unit 20 consists of many lamps or LED including the sidelamps 22, the speaker lamps 24, the under lamps 25 and the top lamps 26.

The hopper driving circuit 63 drives a hopper 64 under control of themain CPU 32. The hopper 64 executes an operation of paying out a coinand pays out the coin to the coin tray 19. The payout completion signalcircuit 65 inputs data of the coin-number from a coin detection unit 66connected thereto and inputs a signal, which notifies payout completionof the coin when the coin-number reaches a predetermined number, to themain CPU 32. The coin detection unit 66 measures the number of coinspaid out by the hopper 64 and inputs data of the measured number to thepayout completion signal circuit 65. The display unit driving circuit 67controls display operations of various display units such aspayout-number display unit 8, credit-number display unit 9 and lowerliquid crystal panel 5C.

The first image control circuit 68 and the second image control circuit69 have a same structure. The first image control circuit 68 displays aneffect screen in the upper liquid crystal panel 5A and the second imagecontrol circuit 69 displays the symbols 180 or mini game screen 200 ofthe penalty-kick shoot-out in the central liquid crystal panel 5B. Thespeaker driving circuit 72 controls the voice output by the speakers 23.The image control circuits 68, 69 will be described later.

The main CPU 32 executes a control of outputting a command signal, whichcauses the symbols 180 displayed in the central liquid crystal panel 5Bto be scrolled when a credit is bet and then the start button is pushed,to the second image control circuit 69, a control of determining symbolsthat are stopped after the symbols 180 are scrolled and a control ofstopping the determined symbols in the display windows 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D,7E.

In other words, the main CPU 32 has functions of an arrangementcontroller for executing an arrangement control of selecting symbols tobe arranged into a symbol matrix from many types of symbols and stoppingthe symbols in the symbol matrix from a scroll state, so as to rearrangethe displayed symbols 180 as the symbol matrix after scrolling thesymbols 180 displayed in the central liquid crystal panel 5B. Herein,the “arrangement” means a state in which an outside player can identifythe symbols 180 with naked eyes. Meanwhile, the “rearrangement” is meantby arranging the symbols 180 again after dismissing the arrangement ofthe symbols 180.

The second image control circuit 69 will be described in detail.Meanwhile, since the first image control circuit 68 is same as thesecond image control circuit 69, its description is omitted.

As shown in FIG. 5, the second image control circuit 69 controls thedisplay of the central liquid crystal panel 5B of the variable displayunit 4B. The second image control circuit 69 has an interface circuit 74that is connected to the I/O port 39, an image control CPU 82, an imagecontrol work RAM 83, an image control program ROM 84, a VDP (VideoDisplay Processor) 85, an image ROM 86, a video RAM 87 and a drivingcircuit 88.

The image control CPU 82 determines an image that is displayed in thecentral liquid crystal panel 5B in accordance with an image controlprogram stored in the image control program ROM 84, based on parametersset in the microcomputer 31.

The image control program ROM 84 stores the image control programrelating to the display in the central liquid crystal panel 5B or avariety of selection tables. The image control work RAM 83 serves as atemporary storage means when the image control program is executed inthe image control CPU 82. The VDP 85 forms an image in accordance with acontent determined in the image control CPU 82 and outputs the image tothe central liquid crystal panel 5B. The image ROM 86 stores dot datafor forming an image. The video RAM 87 serves as a temporary storagemeans when the VDP 85 forms an image. The driving circuit 88 controlsthe display of the central liquid crystal panel 5B, based on the VDP 85.

(Symbol, Combination and the Like)

The symbols 180 to be displayed in the display windows 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D,7E of the slot machine 1 constitute columns of symbols, each of whichconsists of 22 symbols. The symbols constituting the respective columnsof symbols are given with one code number of 0˜21, as shown in FIG. 6.Each of the columns of symbols is constituted with a combination ofsymbols of “JACKPOT 7,” “BLUE 7,” “BELL,” “CHERRY,” “STRAWBERRY,”“PLUM,” “ORANGE” and “APPLE.”

The three successive symbols in the columns of symbols are displayed(arranged) in the upper, center and lower stages 7 a, 7 b, 7 c of therespective display windows 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E, respectively, so thatthey constitute a symbol matrix of 5 columns/3 rows. When the bet buttonis pushed and then the start button is pushed to start a game, thesymbols constituting the symbol matrix start the scroll. When apredetermined time period elapses after the scroll starts, the scrollsof the respective symbols are stopped (rearranged).

In addition, various winning combinations are predetermined with regardto the respective symbols. The winning combination is a combination thata combination of symbols stopped on the pay line L becomes anadvantageous state to the player. The advantageous state is a state inwhich a coin is paid out in accordance with the winning combination, astate in which the payout-number of coins is added to a credit, a statein which a bonus game is started, and the like.

Specifically, when a combination of “APPLE” symbol is stopped on the payline L, a bonus is triggered and a gaming state is shifted to a bonusgame from a basic game. In addition, when a combination of “CHERRY”symbol is stopped on the pay line L in the basic game, 20 coins (values)are paid out per one bet. When a combination of “PLUM” symbol is stoppedon the pay line L in the basic game, 5 coins are paid out per one bet.

In the mean time, a bonus game is a gaming state that is moreadvantageous than the basic game. In addition, when a gaming state isadvantageous to a player, i.e., a gaming state is more advantageous thanthe basic game; the other bonus game may be further adopted. Forexample, a state in which it is possible to obtain more coins than thebasic game, a state in which it is possible to obtain a coin in a higherprobability than in the basic game, a state in which the coin is lessconsumed than in the basic game, a free game and the like may be adoptedas the other bonus game.

In the followings, each table stored in the ROM 34 of the main controlsubstrate 71 is described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 10.

(Payout Management Table)

FIG. 7 shows a payout management table managing a payout that is awardedon the basis of a winning combination. The payout management table isstored in the ROM 34 of the main control substrate 71 and the payoutinformation is matched to a type of the winning combination. Forexample, a payout corresponding to a winning combination of “BELL” is“10.” A payout corresponding to a winning combination of “BLUE 7” is“40.” In addition, in this embodiment, the payouts in the basic game andthe free game are set to be same.

(Free Game-Number Table)

FIG. 8 shows a table that is referred to, when determining a freegame-number for a point-number acquired in a mini game of the basicgame. In the free game-number table, a point-number awarded in a minigame is matched to a free game-number. For example, when an accumulatedpoint is “4,” “80” free games are executed. In addition, when anaccumulated point is “8,” “160” free games are executed. Like this, whena mini game of the basic game ends in success and more points are thusacquired, a player can continue the free game for a long time.

(Mini Game Start Determining Table)

FIG. 9 shows a table that is referred to when determining whether tostart a mini game. The mini game is started approximately at the sametime when the operating button 11 (start button) is pushed and thesymbols 180 are scrolled. In the mini game start determining table, foreach of the basic game and the free game, the random numbers arerespectively allotted to a case where a mini game is started and a casewhere a mini game is not started. For example, in the basic game, whenthe random number of “0˜156” is sampled, a mini game is started and whenthe random number of “157˜256” is sampled, a mini game is not started.In addition, in the free game, when the random number of “0˜199” issampled, a mini game is started and when the random number of “200˜256”is sampled; a mini game is not started.

In the mean time, the mini game may be started in only one of the basicgame and the free game, or may be started in the bonus game.

(Mini Game Result Determining Table)

FIG. 10 shows a table that is referred to when a player does not pushthe operating button 11 (start button) in the mini game. In the minigame of this embodiment, it is determined whether the mini game ends insuccess, based on the operation of the player. When a player does notcarry out the operation for a predetermined time period, for exampleuntil the symbols 180 being scrolled are stopped, a mini game result israndomly determined. In the mini game result determining table of FIG.10, the random numbers are respectively allotted to a case where themini game ends in success and a case where the mini game results infailure. For example, when the random number of “0˜200” is sampled, themini game ends in failure and when the random number of “201˜256” issampled, the mini game ends in success. In other words, when a playerdoes not carry out an operation in a mini game, a probability that themini game will end in success is lower.

(Display State)

An example of a display state of the display 4 (specifically, centralvariable display unit 4B) during the operation of the slot machine 1 isdescribed in detail. Meanwhile, as shown in FIG. 11, the display stateis described on the basis of a structure in which the display 4 arrangesthe symbols 180 in a video reel manner.

FIG. 11 shows a display state of the display 4 when a mini game isstopped. In other words, the bet-number display unit 6, thepayout-number display unit 8 or credit-number display unit 9 isdisplayed in the central liquid crystal panel 5B. In addition, thedisplay windows 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E are displayed in an enlarged state inthe overall screen except the bet-number display unit 6, thepayout-number display unit 8 or credit-number display unit 9. When abasic game or free game is started, all the symbols 180 of the displaywindows 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E are variably displayed.

In addition, when the mini game is stopped, a football game screen isdisplayed in the upper variable display unit 4A. The football gamescreen displays an image in which a player in the football game passes aball and has an eye on a goal. In the mean time, this image may be amoving picture or still image.

FIG. 12 shows a display state of the display 4 when a mini game isexecuted. In other words, when a mini game is started, the displaywindows 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E are downscaled and displayed in theupper-half part of the screen, as shown in FIG. 12. In addition, themini game screen 200 to execute the mini game is displayed in thelower-half part of the respective display windows 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E.

The mini game screen 200 shows an image of a penalty-kick shoot-out in afootball game. Specifically, a kicker who kicks a ball and a goalkeeperwho keeps the ball are displayed as an initial screen. Then, when apredetermined waiting time elapses and then the kicker makes a goal, animage of “GOAL” is displayed and an accumulated point-number isdisplayed. Thereby, a player can see the points that are acquired by theplayer. In the mean time, when the kicker does not make a goal, thedisplay is returned to an initial screen of a next penalty-kickshoot-out. In this case, no point occurs.

In addition, during the execution of the mini game, a PK-waiting screenis displayed in the central variable display unit 4B. The PK-waitingscreen displays an image showing an overall football stadium. In themean time, this image may be a moving picture or still image.

(Process Operation)

In the followings, a process that is carried out in the slot machine 1is described. FIGS. 13A and 13B are flow charts showing processoperations in the basic game of the slot machine 1, which are carriedout by the main CPU 32 of the slot machine 1. A one-time routine ofFIGS. 13A and 13B constitutes a unit game. On the one hand, the slotmachine 1 has been started in advance. On the other hand, the parametersused in the main CPU 32 of the game controller are initialized aspredetermined values and the slot machine 1 is thus normally operated.

First, it is determined whether the credit is remained which is theremaining number of the coins inserted by the player (S1). Specifically,the credit-number (C) stored in the RAM 33 is read and a process basedon the credit-number read is carried out. When the credit-number (C) is“0” (S1, NO), this routine is ended without carrying out any processbecause a game cannot be started. On the other hand, when thecredit-number is “1” or more (S1, YES), the main CPU 32 determines thatthere remains a credit, and proceeds to a S2.

In the S2, it is determined whether the operating button 11 (bet button)is pushed or not (S2). When the operating button 11 (bet button) is notpushed for a predetermined time period (S2, NO), a game condition is set(S3). Specifically, it is determined the number of coins that will bebet on the pay line L in this game in accordance with the operation ofthe operating button 11 (bet button). At this time, an operating signal,which is generated in accordance with the operation of the operatingbutton 11 (bet button), is received and a bet-number of the pay line L,which corresponds to the reception number of times of the operationsignal, is stored in a predetermined memory area of the RAM 33. Then,the credit-number (C) stored in the predetermined memory area of the RAM33 is read. A total bet-number having the bet-number added thereto issubtracted from the credit-number (C) read. The resultant value is thenstored in the predetermined memory area of the RAM 33.

Then, it is determined whether the operating button 11 (start button) ispushed or not (S4). When the operating button 11 (start button) is notpushed (S4, NO), the process of S4 is repeatedly carried out, so thatthe waiting state becomes until the operating button 11 is pushed. Whenthe operating button 11 (start button) is pushed (S4, YES), it isdetermined whether to start a mini game (S5). Specifically, it isdetermined whether to start a mini game using the table shown in FIG. 9and the sampled random number value.

In the mean time, in the S2, when the operating button 11 (bet button)is pushed (S2, YES), it is determined whether the credit-number (C) isequal to or larger than the total bet-number in the previous game.Namely, it is determined whether the operating button 11 (bet button) ispushed to start a game. Specifically, when the operating button 11 (betbutton) is pushed, it is read the credit-number (C) and the bet-numberon the pay line L in the previous game, which are stored in thepredetermined memory area of the RAM 33. A process is carried outdepending on whether the credit-number (C) is equal to or larger thanthe total bet-number in the previous game, based on the relation of thecredit-number (C) and the bet-number read. When it is determined thatthe credit-number (C) is less than the total bet-number in the previousgame (S16, NO), this routine is ended without carrying out any processbecause a game cannot be started.

In the mean time, when it is determined that the credit-number (C) isequal to or larger than the total bet-number in the previous game (S16,YES); the total bet-number in the previous game is subtracted from thecorresponding credit-number (C). The resultant value is stored in thepredetermined memory area of the RAM 33. Then, it is determined whetherto start a mini game (S5).

When it is determined to start a mini game (S6, YES), a mini game startflag is set “ON” (S7). Specifically, the data, which indicates that agame start flag is ON, is written in a storage area of the mini gamestart flag of the RAM 33. Meanwhile, when it is determined not to starta mini game (S6, NO), a combination determining process is carried out(S8).

In the combination determining process, it is determined a combinationof symbols to be stopped on the pay line L. Specifically, an instructionis generated which instructs the random number generator 35 to generatea random number. Then, a random number within a predetermined rangegenerated by the random number generator 35 is sampled. The sampledrandom number is stored in the predetermined memory area of the RAM 33.In the mean time, in this embodiment, the random number is generated inthe random number generator 35 that is provided to the outside of themain CPU 32. However, the random number may be generated through acalculation process of the main CPU 32, without the random numbergenerator 35.

Then, it is read a random number table and a winning combination tablefor awarding a winning, which are stored in the ROM 34. The randomnumber table and the winning combination table read are stored in apredetermined memory area of the RAM 33. In the mean time, a stopdisplay for each reel is controlled, based on the random number table.

Then, the random number table and the winning combination table storedin the predetermined memory area of the RAM 33 are read out. The randomnumber written in the predetermined memory area of the RAM 33 is used asparameter to refer to the corresponding random number table. Then, acombination of symbols to be stopped on the pay line L is determined.

When a winning combination is determined, the winning combination tableis stored in the predetermined memory area of the RAM 33. The randomnumber value and the winning combination table, which are stored in thepredetermined memory area of the RAM 33, are read out. Then, a stopsymbol combination to be stop-displayed is determined, based on therandom number value and the winning combination table read. At thistime, the symbol arrangement table stored in the ROM 34 is read out,stored in the predetermined memory area of the RAM and referred to bythe main CPU 32. The data of the determined stop symbol is stored in thepredetermined memory area of the RAM 33. In the mean time,alternatively, the stop symbol may be determined for each reel with therandom number table.

When a combination of symbols to be stopped on the pay line L isdetermined, it is determined whether the combination of symbols to bestopped on the pay line L is a winning combination or not. When thecombination of symbols to be stopped on the pay line L is a winningcombination, a flag is activated which indicates that a payoutindicating a type of the winning combination will be awarded, so as togenerate a winning on the pay line L, which corresponds to a symbolcombination that is the determined winning combination. The flagindicating that the activated winning will be awarded is stored in thepredetermined memory area of the RAM 33. In the mean time, when thecombination of symbols to be stopped on the pay line L is the otherwinning combination, i.e., when the combination is a combination of“losing”, the flag indicating that the winning will be awarded is notactivated.

After the above combination determining process is executed, it isdisplayed an image of rotating the symbols 180 in the display windows7A˜7E. Specifically, it is displayed an image of rotating each of thedisplay windows 7A˜7E sequentially or simultaneously, based on thesymbol arrangement table (not shown) stored in the RAM 33.

When the image of starting the rotation of the display windows 7A˜7E isdisplayed, the waiting state becomes until a predetermined time periodelapses (S10). Then, the rotation of the display windows 7A˜7E isautomatically stopped (S11). Specifically, it is carried out a displayof sequentially or simultaneously stopping the rotation image of thedisplay windows 7A˜7E so that the stop symbols, which correspond to thewinning combination determined in the S8 on the basis of the winningcombination written in the predetermined memory area of the RAM 33, aredisplayed in a display area having a visually interactive relation witha player.

Then, it is determined whether a winning combination is made through thecombination determining process of the S8 (S12). Specifically, thedetermination is carried out, based on a state of the flag indicatingthat a winning relating to the pay line L, which is stored in thepredetermined memory area of the RAM 33, will be awarded. When the flagindicating that a winning will be awarded is not activated (S12, NO), itis determined that a winning combination is not made, and this routineis thus ended.

Meanwhile, when the flag indicating that a winning will be awarded isactivated (S12, YES), it is determined whether the winning combination,which is made through the combination determining process of the S8, is“BLUE 7.” Specifically, when the winning combination is “BLUE 7” (S13,YES), the coins corresponding to the winning combination is paid out(S17) and this routine is then ended.

In the mean time, when the winning combination is not “BLUE 7” (S13,NO), it is determined whether a mini game end flag is ON or not (S14).Specifically, it is determined whether data, which indicates that a minigame end flag is ON, is stored in a mini game end flag area of the RAM33. When it is determined that the mini game end flag is not ON (S14,NO), the process of S14 is repeatedly carried out, so that the waitingstate becomes. When it is determined that the mini game end flag is ON(S14, YES), a free game process is executed (S15). Then, this routine isended.

(Free Game Process)

In the followings, a free game process is described with reference toFIG. 14.

First, a free game-number is set to be N. The free game-number isdetermined depending on the accumulated number of points that areacquired in the mini game of the basic game.

Then, it is determined whether to start a mini game. Specifically, it isdetermined whether to start a mini game, through the table shown in FIG.9 and the sampled random number value. When it is determined to startthe mini game (S103, YES), the mini game start flag is set “ON” (S104).Specifically, the data indicating that the mini game start flag is ON iswritten in the storage area of the mini game start flag of the RAM 33.Then, the main CPU 32 proceeds to a process of S105.

On the other hand, when it is determined not to start the mini game(S103, NO), the main CPU 32 directly proceeds to the process of S105.Thereby, it is carried out the combination determining process asdescribed above. A difference of this combination determining process isthat a random number table to be referred to is a random number tablefor a free game (not shown). Then, it is displayed an image of startingto rotate the display windows 7A˜7E (S106). After waiting for apredetermined time period (S107), it is displayed an image of stoppingthe rotation of the display windows 7A˜7E (S108).

Then, it is determined whether a winning combination is made or not(S109). When a winning combination is not made (S109, NO), the main CPU32 proceeds to a process of S111. When a winning combination is made(S109, YES), the payout process relating to the winning combination iscarried out (S110). Specifically, the payout management table of FIG. 7is referred to calculate a payout-number of coins, which corresponds tothe winning combination. Then, the credit-number stored in thepredetermined memory area of the RAM 33 is read out. The calculatedvalue is added to the credit-number read. The resultant value is storedin the predetermined memory area of the RAM 33 and the correspondingstored value is displayed in the credit-number display unit 9.

In the process of S111, 1 is subtracted from N (S111). Then, it isdetermined whether the mini game end flag is ON or not (S112).Specifically, it is determined whether the data, which indicates thatthe mini game end flag is ON, is stored in the mini game end flag areaof the RAM 33. When it is determined that the mini game end flag is notON (S112, NO), the process of S112 is repeatedly carried out, so thatthe waiting state becomes.

When it is determined that the mini game end flag is ON (S112, YES), itis continued to determine whether N is 0 or not (S113). When it isdetermined that N is not 0 (S113, NO), the process is re-executed fromthe S102. In the mean time, when it is determined that N is 0 (S113,YES), this routine is ended.

(Mini Game Process)

In the followings, a mini game process is described with reference toFIG. 15.

First, a football game display that is an effect screen during the stopof the mini game is displayed in the upper liquid crystal panel 5A(S201). Then, it is determined whether the mini game start flag is ON ornot. Specifically, it is determined whether the data, which indicatesthat the mini game start flag is ON, is stored in the game start flagarea of the RAM 33 (S202).

When it is determined that the mini game start flag is not ON (S202,NO), this routine is ended. In the mean time, when it is determined thatthe mini game start flag is ON (S202, YES), in the upper liquid crystalpanel 5A, the football game screen may be converted into a PK-waitingscreen that is an effect screen during execution of the mini game, asshown in FIG. 1. Then, the mini game screen 200 is displayed in thecentral liquid crystal panel 5B, so that the display windows 7A, 7B, 7C,7D, 7E and the mini game screen 200 are displayed in the upper and lowerareas (S204).

Then, a penalty-kick shoot-out that is a mini game is started (S205). Inother words, an image in which a goalkeeper and a kicker stand oppositeto each other is displayed and sounds of spectators are outputted. Then,when the kicker puts on a ball and intends to kick it, it is determinedwhether a penalty-kick ends in success, i.e., whether the mini game endsin success (S206). Specifically, it is determined whether the mini gameis made to end in success, through the table shown in FIG. 10 and thesampled random number value.

Then, it is determined whether the penalty-kick (mini game) ends insuccess (S207). When the penalty-kick ends in success (S207, YES), theaccumulated point-number is counted up by 1 (S208) and the accumulatedpoint-number is displayed (S209). Then, it is determined whether themini game is executed by the predetermined number of times (S210).Meanwhile, when the penalty-kick ends in failure (S207, NO), theaccumulated point-number is not counted up and it is determined whetherthe mini game is executed by the predetermined number of times (S210).

When it is determined that the mini game is not executed by thepredetermined number of times (S210, NO), the process is re-executedfrom the S203 and a next penalty-kick shoot-out is started. For example,when the penalty-kick shoot-out is repeatedly carried out by ten times(S210, YES), the screen is converted into a basic game screen (S211).Then, a free game-number is determined (S212) and the accumulatedpoint-number is reset (S213). Then, the mini game end flag is set ON(S214) and this routine is then ended.

Although the above descriptions have been provided with regard to thecharacteristic parts so as to understand the invention more easily, theinvention is not limited to the embodiment as described above and can beapplied to the other embodiments and the applicable scope should beconstrued as broadly as possible. Furthermore, the terms and phraseologyused in the specification have been used to correctly illustrate theinvention, not to limit it. In addition, it will be understood by thoseskilled in the art that the other structures, systems, methods and thelike included in the spirit of the invention can be derived from thespirit of the invention described in the specification. Accordingly, itshould be considered that the invention covers equivalent structuresthereof without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention asdefined in the following claims. Further, the abstract is provided sothat an intellectual property office and a general public institution orone skilled in the art who is not familiar with patent and legal orprofessional terminology can quickly analyze the technical features andessences of the invention through a simple investigation. Accordingly,the abstract is not intended to limit the scope of the invention thatshould be evaluated by the claims. In addition, it is required tosufficiently refer to the documents that have been already disclosed, soas to fully understand the objects and effects of the invention.

The above descriptions include a process that is executed on a computeror computer network. The above descriptions and expressions have beenprovided so that the one skilled in the art can understand the inventionmost effectively. In the specification, the respective steps used toinduce one result or blocks having a predetermined processing functionshould be understood as a process having no self-contradiction. Inaddition, the electrical or magnetic signal is transmitted/received andwritten in the respective steps or blocks. Although the processes in therespective steps or blocks embody the signal as a bit, value, symbol,character, term, number and the like, it should be noted that these havebeen used for the convenience of descriptions. Further, although theprocesses in the respective steps or blocks have been often described asan expression common to a human action, the process described in thespecification is executed by a variety of devices in principle. Inaddition, the other structures necessary for the respective steps orblocks are apparent from the above descriptions.

1. A gaming machine comprising: a display that displays an image, amemory that stores an accumulated point-number to be updated dependingon an execution result of a mini game, an input device that outputs asignal to start a basic game, and a game controller, wherein the gamecontroller is programmed: (a1) to start the basic game as the signal isreceived from the input device; (a2) to determine whether to execute themini game at least during execution of the basic game; (a3) to displaythe predetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-out images in thedisplay, when it is determined to execute the mini game; (a4) to add apoint-number corresponding to the number of victory times to theaccumulated point-number to update the accumulated point-number, whenthe penalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory; (a5) to determine agame-number of a free game depending on the accumulated point-numberafter executing the mini game; and (a6) to execute the free game by thegame-number.
 2. A gaming machine comprising: a display that displays animage, a memory that stores an accumulated point-number to be updateddepending on an execution result of a mini game, an input device thatoutputs a signal to start a basic game, and a game controller, whereinthe game controller is programmed: (b1) to start the basic game as thesignal is received from the input device; (b2) to display a footballgame image in the display at least during execution of the basic game;(b3) to determine whether to execute the mini game at least during theexecution of the basic game; (b4) to display the predetermined number ofpenalty-kick shoot-out images in the display, when it is determined toexecute the mini game; (b5) to add a point-number corresponding to thenumber of victory times to the accumulated point-number to update theaccumulated point-number, when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends invictory; (b6) to determine a game-number of a free game depending on theaccumulated point-number after executing the mini game; and (b7) toexecute the free game by the game-number.
 3. A gaming machinecomprising: a display that displays an image, a memory that stores anaccumulated point-number to be updated depending on an execution resultof a mini game, an input device that outputs a signal to start a basicgame, and a game controller, wherein the game controller is programmed:(c1) to start the basic game or free game as the signal is received fromthe input device; (c2) to determine whether to execute the mini game atleast during execution of the basic game; (c3) to display thepredetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-out images in the display,when it is determined to execute the mini game; (c4) to display asetting image enabling a player to determine at least one of a ballspeed and a ball direction in the penalty-kick shoot-out; (c5) to add apoint-number corresponding to the number of victory times to theaccumulated point-number to update the accumulated point-number, whenthe penalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory; (c6) to determine agame-number of the free game depending on the accumulated point-numberafter executing the mini game; and (c7) to execute the free game by thegame-number.
 4. A gaming machine comprising: a first display thatdisplays an image, a second display that displays an image, a memorythat stores an accumulated point-number to be updated depending on anexecution result of a mini game, an input device that outputs a signalto start a basic game, and a game controller, wherein the gamecontroller is programmed: (d1) to start the basic game as the signal isreceived from the input device; (d2) to display an image of the basicgame in the first display; (d3) to display a football game image in thesecond display at least during execution of the basic game; (d4) todetermine whether to execute the mini game at least during the executionof the basic game; (d5) to display the predetermined number ofpenalty-kick shoot-out images together with the image of the basic gamein the first display, when it is determined to execute the mini game;(d6) to add a point-number corresponding to the number of victory timesto the accumulated point-number to update the accumulated point-number,when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory; (d7) to determine agame-number of a free game depending on the accumulated point-numberafter executing the mini game; and (d8) to execute the free game by thegame-number.
 5. A gaming machine comprising: a display that displays animage, a memory that stores an accumulated point-number to be updateddepending on an execution result of a mini game, an input device thatoutputs a signal to start a basic game, and a game controller, whereinthe game controller is programmed: (e1) to start the basic game as thesignal is received from the input device; (e2) to display a footballgame image in the display at least during execution of the basic game;(e3) to determine whether to execute the mini game at least during theexecution of the basic game; (e4) to display the predetermined number ofpenalty-kick shoot-out images in the display, when it is determined toexecute the mini game; (e5) to display a setting image enabling a playerto determine at least one of a ball speed and a ball direction in thepenalty-kick shoot-out; (e6) to add a point-number corresponding to thenumber of victory times to the accumulated point-number to update theaccumulated point-number, when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends invictory; (e7) to determine a game-number of a free game depending on theaccumulated point-number after executing the mini game; and (e8) toexecute the free game by the game-number.
 6. A gaming machinecomprising: a first display that displays an image, a second displaythat displays an image, a memory that stores an accumulated point-numberto be updated depending on an execution result of a mini game, an inputdevice that outputs a signal to start a basic game, and a gamecontroller, wherein the game controller is programmed: (f1) to start thebasic game as the signal is received from the input device, (f2) todisplay an image of the basic game in the first display; (f3) to displaya football game image in the second display at least during execution ofthe basic game; (f4) to determine whether to execute the mini game atleast during the execution of the basic game; (f5) to display thepredetermined number of penalty-kick shoot-out images together with theimage of the basic game in the first display, when it is determined toexecute the mini game; (f6) to display, in the first display, a settingimage enabling a player to determine at least one of a ball speed and aball direction in the penalty-kick shoot-out; (f7) to add a point-numbercorresponding to the number of victory times to the accumulatedpoint-number to update the accumulated point-number, when thepenalty-kick shoot-out ends in victory; (f8) to determine a game-numberof a free game depending on the accumulated point-number after executingthe mini game; and (f9) to execute the free game by the game-number. 7.A gaming machine comprising: a first display that displays an image, asecond display that displays an image, a memory that stores anaccumulated point-number to be updated depending on an execution resultof a mini game, an input device that outputs a signal to start a basicgame or free game shifted from the basic game, and a game controller,wherein the game controller is programmed: (g1) to start the basic gameor free game as the signal is received from the input device; (g2) todisplay an image of the basic game or free game in the first display;(g3) to display a football game image in the second display duringexecution of the basic game or free game; (g4) to determine whether toexecute the mini game at least during the execution of the basic game orfree game; (g5) to display the predetermined number of penalty-kickshoot-out images together with the image of the basic game or free gamein the first display, when it is determined to execute the mini game;(g6) to display, in the first display, a setting image enabling a playerto determine at least one of a ball speed and a ball direction in thepenalty-kick shoot-out; (g7) to add a point-number corresponding to thenumber of victory times to the accumulated point-number to update theaccumulated point-number, when the penalty-kick shoot-out ends invictory; (g8) to determine a game-number of the free game depending onthe accumulated point-number after executing the mini game; and (g9) toexecute the free game by the game-number.